Arsenal have been handed a massive injury blow before their trip to St James park as both Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker have been ruled out of the game against Newcastle.
Arsenal have looked shaky at the back since the start of the season and it is unlikely that their defending will get better at Newcastle, especially with two of their best defenders out with injury.
Gabriel and Chambers started as the two centre backs against Liverpool and were dominated all game by the likes of Benteke and Coutinho. The duo have not played together much and the lack of understanding was evident.
Both players made countless errors in defence and were bailed out by an inspired Petr Cech in goal.
Arsenal’s defensive struggles are set to continue against Newcastle at the weekend.
Koscielny is set to miss out on the tie due to a back injury whereas Mertesacker is out with illness. The German could still make the cut if he recovers in time, but it seems unlikely at this point.
Arsenal have made a poor start to the season so far and are yet to score at home. Wenger will be hoping to build on their display against Liverpool and claim a valuable three points against Newcastle this week.
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